A bill from state Rep. Brian BeGole that works to protect a critical local economic driver for many communities throughout the state passed through the Michigan House today.

BeGole’s “Right to Race” legislation, House Bill 5652, provides immunity for established racetracks from noise lawsuits filed by people who have moved near an existing track. There are nearly 50 racetracks in Michigan spread across 30 counties, and some have been sued for noise nuisance arguments despite approved activity occurring at the track and operators complying with various local permits and safety regulations.

In 2025, a Michigan court ordered a drag racing track in Onondaga to cease operations immediately due to a lawsuit based on noise.

“These types of frivolous lawsuits are increasingly common, and they threaten livelihoods throughout Michigan,” BeGole said. “People can choose if they want to live near a racetrack or not, and with that comes the understanding that there will occasionally be noise associated. Many of these tracks have been staples within their towns and communities for decades. Every year they provide seasonal jobs and a constant influx of funds into local economies. They support local vendors throughout the area. We shouldn’t be shutting down tracks and taking away jobs and economic viability because someone knowingly moved nearby and has a problem with it. This is a commonsense approach that works to curb issues going forward.”

BeGole compared the legislation to Michigan’s Right to Farm law signed in 1981, which protects commercial farms from nuisance lawsuits involving noise, odor or dust.

Earlier this month, BeGole welcomed Owosso Speedway Operations Lead Dennis Wheeler and owner Rex Wheeler when HB 5652 received testimony before the House Government Operations Committee. Dennis Wheeler thanked the committee, chaired by BeGole, for bringing up the bill for a hearing and spoke on the need for the proposal as well as the ramifications of noise-related lawsuits. BeGole represents Owosso in the Michigan House.

“Owosso Speedway has been part of our community for 87 years,” Dennis Wheeler said, noting that motorsports in Shiawassee County produced almost $33 million in economic impact last year. “We are many things, not just a racetrack. We are a small business. We’re an employer, a tourism driver, and a gathering place for families across mid-Michigan. … House Bill 5652 reinforces a simple but fair principle: if a racetrack was established lawfully and continues to operate in compliance with the law (and local ordinances), it should not be forced out by newcomers. This bill does not remove oversight. It does not eliminate environmental protections. It does not excuse bad actors. It simply provides stability and predictability for facilities that are already following the rules.”

The plan now moves to the Senate for further consideration.